Twitter may get edge on Google phones

Twitter as part of its first Chirp conference today said it would have an official Android app. When asked about the platform, chief Evan Williams was clear the company would take the same approach used for the BlackBerry and iPhone, where a Twitter-branded download would compete against third-party rivals. He stopped short of explaining whether this would involve buying another company or developing a new app entirely.

Android is unique for Twitter in that relatively few clients have succeeded. While apps like Seesmic and Twidroid have been popular, few others have gained traction and have often had to compete against built-in tools. HTC's Peep and Motorola's MOTOBLUR, among others, supply a basic level of Twitter access without needing to visit Android Market.

Williams has argued that, for every mobile OS, Twitter has needed a better experience and an easier way for newcomers to get into the service. Those writing outside apps have criticized the strategy as attempting to squeeze out alternatives.

By Electronista Staff